GCash, Western Union Expand Global ‘Cash In’ to Over 200 Markets to Serve More Filipinos Globally

The Philippines’ leading finance super app, GCash, is expanding its global ‘cash in’ feature through a strategic partnership with Western Union, one of the world’s most trusted international money transfer providers, with a global financial network spanning over 200 countries and territories worldwide.

Filipinos living and working overseas may ‘cash in’ (send money) to GCash e-wallet accounts through the Western Union App, website, or through a network of hundreds of thousands of retail locations worldwide. Additionally, they can also send funds to their families and friends with GCash accounts. Once completed, funds are credited instantly to the GCash wallet and can be used immediately for essentials such as groceries, bills, online shopping, savings, insurance, or even investments. Customers can now send up to PHP 500,000 per transaction.

“At GCash, we remain committed to driving financial empowerment for all Filipinos, wherever they are in the world,” said GCash International general manager Paul Albano. “This collaboration with Western Union enables fast, secure, and reliable remittances, ensuring that the hard-earned money of OFWs reaches their families swiftly and safely.”

Western Union’s global scale now connects with the extensive local cashless ecosystem of GCash—the largest in the country. GCash users in the Philippines benefit from over 339,000 cash-in and cash-out outlets, 5.2 million QR-accepting merchants, and more than 520 partner brands on the GLife platform.

Gregory Laurent, regional vice president, Philippines, Japan, Australia, New Zealand, and Pacific Islands for Western Union, said, “Our partnership with GCash, one the the Philippines’ most respected financial services brands, enables us to stay true to our purpose of serving the aspiring populations of the world with accessible, easy-to-use services, particularly in the digital space. It is yet another mark of the importance we place on the Philippines and consumers in the country, as well as the Filipino diaspora abroad.”

For millions of OFWs, this integration removes long-standing friction in the remittance process and strengthens their ability to support their families from afar. GCash continues to evolve from a money transfer platform into a holistic digital finance hub that serves the needs of Filipinos, wherever they may be.

According to the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP), personal remittances from OFWs reached USD 38 billion in 2024, an all-time high and accounting for over 8% of the country’s GDP.

“While digital adoption is accelerating, a significant portion of these remittances is still routed through over-the-counter channels. The integration of GCash with Western Union provides a digital-first alternative that empowers OFWs and their families to manage money more efficiently, securely, and on their terms,” said Albano.

Globe Celebrates You On Its 10th Year of GDay

Globe marks the 10th anniversary of its annual GDay celebration this September with a bold promise to bring joy, rewards, and meaningful experiences closer to customers. What started as a simple thank-you a decade ago has grown into a nationwide movement, bringing together digital innovation, real-world experiences, and heartfelt surprises that celebrate the Filipino spirit.

“At Globe, we believe the most meaningful rewards are the ones that feel personal, those that are made just for you,” said Bianca Wong, Vice President and Head of Feel Valued Tribe at Globe. “This GDay, we’re celebrating in a way that recognizes our customers’ diverse passions and everyday wins. Whether it’s a surprise gift or a chance to win larger-than-life prizes on the app, or a fan experience you’ve been wishing for, there’s something in store for everyone to enjoy, tailored to what matters most to them.”

This year, the spotlight turns to everyday moments that feel extraordinary. Across the country, Globe will activate GDay Pop-Up Booths in malls, stores, and neighborhood venues, bringing the celebration closer to where customers live, work, and play. These on-ground activations in key cities like Cebu, Davao, Bacolod, Naga, Tuguegarao, and CDO will transform familiar convergent spaces into joyful brand experiences filled with exclusive promos, partner rewards, and surprise giveaways.

Online, the GlobeOne app is the home of GDay. From daily surprise gifts to chances to unlock exciting rewards, customers can explore a seamless and rewarding journey with every tap. Whether it’s vouchers, lifestyle perks, or something bigger, the GDay Surprise Gift is designed to bring a moment of delight to every day.

For fans and music lovers, GDay 2025 adds a spark of excitement with the GDay BINI Fan Meet, happening on September 13 at the Samsung Performing Arts Theatre. Over 1,500 Globe customers will get to experience a special afternoon with their beloved P-pop group, complete with live performances, fun interactions, and memorable moments on stage. The chance to get tickets will be made available in the GlobeOne app Redeem Rewards section, keeping the spirit of surprise and accessibility alive.

The celebration continues with the biggest G Raffle Rush, running from September 1 to October 31. Every week, customers can look forward to exciting, larger-than-life prizes, starting with a ₱50,000 grocery shopping spree powered by ShareTreats and ₱100,000 in GCash. Globe is also giving away a dream Japan trip for four with business class seats via All Nippon Airways, a luxury staycation for two at NuStar Cebu complete with Philippine Airlines Mabuhay Miles, and flagship gadgets from HUAWEI, HONOR, ASUS ROG, and OPPO Philippines. One lucky winner will even take home a BYD Atto 3 Dynamic Battery Electric Vehicle with ₱75,000 worth of charging credits and freebies from ACMobility through their new EVRO app. 

To top it all off, customers will have the chance to win not just one but two major properties: a Deluxe Studio Condominium unit in Amaia Steps Pasig and a two-bedroom house and lot in Amaia Scapes Trece Martires.
Customers can rush their way to a free raffle entry via the GlobeOne app to join, and also use their available Globe Rewards points to earn more raffle entries and look out for the exciting drops of prizes every week.

Globe celebrates you every day with personalized rewards made just for you. You can count on Globe to make every day a GDay!

Shell Tech Forward 2025 Showcases Future-Ready Solutions for PH Construction, Manufacturing Sector

Shell Philippines brought together industry leaders, partners, and customers at the Shell Tech Forward: Solutions for the Future conference, held at Shangri-La The Fort, Manila, to explore technologies that drive sustainable growth and enhance competitiveness in the construction and manufacturing sectors.

Shell Philippines President and CEO, Lorelie Quiambao Osial opened the event by reaffirming Shell’s commitment as a trusted solutions partner to both public and private sectors. She highlighted how Shell leverages product excellence, advanced technology, and deep expertise to help industries operate more efficiently, sustainably, and competitively.

Adding to this perspective, renowned economist from the University of Asia and the Pacific, Ronilo Balbieran delivered a data-driven assessment of the Philippine economic outlook and its forecast implications for the construction and manufacturing sectors, against the backdrop of global risks and domestic political challenges.

He observed, “While the Philippines is expected to continue its remarkable resilience in its GDP growth, the road ahead requires sharper strategies. While inflation and interest rates are expected to go down, indicators for global economic uncertainties are still highly elevated due to the tariff wars, threatening currency stability, export competitiveness, and supply chain.”

Balbieran concluded, “Success in this evolving landscape will go to those who not only adapt but also invest wisely in technologies and partnerships that drive long-term efficiency and resilience.”

Solutions for a tech-forward future

Responding to these challenges, Shell Product Application Specialist for Asia Pacific, Al Silva showcased Shell’s portfolio of innovative solutions tailored to the evolving needs of construction and manufacturing businesses.
Silva highlighted the vital role of Commercial Fuels in optimizing operations and lowering the total cost of ownership. Specifically designed for bulk commercial customers, these high-quality, performance-tested fuels ensure reliable supply, enhance engine performance, and improve fuel efficiency, helping businesses maximize uptime and reduce operating costs.

He also emphasized Shell’s Commercial Lubricants as a key driver of efficiency and sustainability. These sector-specific formulations reduce emissions, extend equipment life, and lower operating expenses. By boosting fuel economy and minimizing downtime, Shell lubricants help businesses cut costs and maintain peak performance. Shell has proudly held the title of the world’s number one lubricants supplier for 18 consecutive years.

Another key offering in Shell’s tech-forward portfolio is Shell Fleet Solutions, anchored by the trusted Shell Fleet Card. Used by Philippine professional fleets for over 24 years, this solution provides businesses with enhanced control, security, and flexibility. With features such as real-time tracking, customizable spending limits, and exclusive perks, the Shell Fleet Card is an essential tool for streamlining fleet operations, whether managing light commercial vehicles or heavy-duty transport.

“Our formula is simple: combine global expertise with proven product performance to deliver solutions that truly move the needle for our customers,” Silva stated. “We’re continuously innovating to meet the evolving demands of our clients, helping them navigate industry challenges with confidence and resilience.”

The final pillar, Shell Energy, was presented by Bernd Krukenberg, President and CEO of Shell Energy Philippines, who highlighted the company’s expanding portfolio of customized renewable energy solutions designed to help businesses improve operational efficiency while progressing toward net-zero targets. He emphasized that these offerings are particularly valuable for energy-intensive industries such as construction and manufacturing, where companies face mounting pressure to reduce their carbon footprint without sacrificing productivity.

By integrating renewable sources like solar and wind into their operations, companies can enhance energy security, lower operational costs, and contribute meaningfully to a more sustainable future.

“As the Philippines’ largest multinational Retail Electricity Supplier, Shell Energy delivers cleaner, flexible, and competitively priced energy solutions tailored for commercial and industrial clients,” Krukenberg said. “With over a century of presence in the Philippines and decades of global expertise in power trading, Shell is uniquely positioned to support businesses on their sustainability journey.”

The Shell Tech Forward: Solutions for the Future event showcased real-world applications of these technologies, showing that they have moved beyond theory and are ready for immediate adoption by businesses. The event also fostered open dialogue between private and public sector leaders and outlined strategic pathways to drive sustainability and competitiveness in the years ahead.

For more information, visit https://www.shell.com.ph/business.html

Innovation for All: Young Tech Builders Showcase Inclusive Solutions at InnoGen 4 Demo Day

Twenty teams from three senior high schools and 17 colleges and universities in the Philippines showcased their tech-powered solutions at the ‘Demo Day’ of the PLDT and Smart Innovation Generation Season 4. After a year of development, the Giga finalists impressed judges with their most viable products.

Launched last year in collaboration with the National Council on Disability Affairs (NCDA), 96 teams from 79 universities and colleges, as well as 17 senior high schools, qualified for the PLDT Group’s innovation grant program. With the theme ‘Innovation for All’, InnoGen 4 solutions aimed to empower persons with disabilities through technology.

“InnoGen provides support beyond financial and connectivity assistance,” said Stephanie V. Orlino, AVP and Head of Stakeholder Engagement at PLDT and Smart. “It offers a rich learning environment for emerging tech innovators to bring their ideas to life through lectures, workshops, and mentorship. It’s an opportunity to make a real impact in the community.”

I see you. I hear you.
The top three senior high school teams have developed assistive mobile solutions for people with visual and hearing impairments.

Kapalong National High School (Davao del Norte) is rolling out Deafy, an AI-powered mobile app that converts sign language to text and speech—and vice versa—in real time.

The Mabini Academy (Batangas) debuts HearMate, a traffic awareness kit for cyclists and delivery riders with hearing impairments. It features a dual-alert system with real-time haptic and visual feedback.

Team InnoVision from Jose Rizal University (Mandaluyong) presents EYEGO, a hands-free navigation tool that connects persons with visual impairments to seeing “companions” who guide them to their destination. The app includes text-to-speech, voice commands, and live location sharing.

Lead the way.
Three collegiate teams have developed wearable devices and safety systems to help users navigate their way around their communities.

techNerds from Pampanga State Agricultural University (Pampanga) created A-EYE, a cost-effective standalone device combining AI-powered navigation, voice-activated assistance, and intuitive mobility support.

TrackSense from the University of Cebu-Main (Cebu) offers a smart walking aid for persons with visual impairments. It features obstacle and stair-edge detection, GPS tracking, an emergency text button, and AI-powered smart glasses.

ClearPath Collective (C.P.C.) from Mindanao State University-General Santos City developed SafeStep, a pedestrian crossing system installed on street poles. It uses cameras and motion sensors to detect traffic lights to produce audible cues for safe street crossing.

You’re hired!
Five collegiate teams built platforms to connect job seekers with disabilities to employers and livelihood opportunities.

RevoTech from Jose Rizal University (Mandaluyong) developed a cloud-based job application platform called Thrive that matches persons with disabilities with jobs that fit their skills and accessibility needs. Integrated in the mobile app are speech-to-text and text-to-speech features, as well as AI for building resumes.

Apcas Tech-Alpha from Asia Pacific College of Advanced Studies (Bataan) presents an online platform called KayaCo with three key features: an e-marketplace for products made by persons with disabilities, a job search tool, and online learning resources.

Konek.dev from the University of the Philippines – Los Banos (Laguna) introduces Kaya, an AI-powered employment app that matches job seekers with disabilities with prospective employers, builds resumes, and offers career coaching.

EM-Power Rangers from the Angeles University Foundation (Pampanga) created PWEDE, a localized job-matching platform using smart algorithms to pair jobseekers with physical impairments to employers in Pampanga.

Unique from University of San Jose-Recoletos (Cebu) developed AIDA, an AI-powered platform that connects persons with disabilities to employment and training opportunities.

Let’s talk.
Four collegiate teams developed software that can be integrated into devices to help persons who have hearing and mobility impairments communicate better.

PENTAVALENT from Bulacan State University (Bulacan) unveils REACH, a radar-based device that translates sign language gestures into text and speech, with mobile app integration.

Palabra from Mariano Marcos State University (Ilocos Norte) presents a smartphone-based communication tool using images and symbols to help children with hearing impairments communicate with peers.

Innovators from First Asia Institute of Technology and Humanities (FAITH Colleges) (Batangas) developed Speech Pal, a speech aid kiosk for children recovering from cleft lip and palate surgery, designed to support therapy sessions.

ICTDU Dragons T1 from Systems Plus College Foundation rolls out QuickGlance a mobile app that enables hands-free smartphone use through eye, head, and emotion-based controls.

Safe and Smart Living.
Teams also developed apps for health, mobility, and emergency response.

StaFit from Jose Rizal University (Mandaluyong) presents iCare, a telehealth app that connects Parkinson’s patients with specialists and offers educational resources.

Innovare from the University of San Carlos (Cebu) developed Chryssa, a private journaling app that uses AI to flag critical mental health entries for therapist review.

JEEPNIGO from Davao Central College (Davao) offers persons with mobility impairments a smarter way to commute via jeepneys. The app allows users to book seats in advance, track rides, and pay using cashless options.

Team ODI from Pamantasan ng Lungsod ng Maynila (Manila) introduces CloudCast, an inclusive emergency response app that sends geolocated distress signals to responders and agencies. It also allows users to send emergency SMS to others.

Team E.M.M.A. from University of San Jose-Recoletos (Cebu) developed an AI-powered app that helps users locate the nearest evacuation center via safe routes. It also supports LGUs in distributing relief goods and matching rescue facility needs with donors.

The InnoGen 4 Demo Day is the culminating opportunity for Giga teams to pitch their inclusive tech solutions to a panel of tech mavericks, startup incubators, government agencies, and private organizations—all championing greater opportunities for persons with disabilities.

Up for grabs are three major awards.

The Game Changer Award recognizes the most innovative solution. The honor celebrates creativity and out-of-the-box thinking.

The Changemaker Award is given to the team whose solution creates the most significant positive impact on their community.

The Real MVP Award goes to the team with the most ground-breaking solution that has a lasting impact on their community and embodies what this season’s InnoGen is all about – inclusive, impactful, sustainable, and scalable.

Since its launch in 2020, Innovation Generation has welcomed over 1,500 participants into the program and conducted more than 55 learning sessions to help the tech-savvy youth build their digital solutions. In the past four seasons, 73 prototypes have been presented by finalists – six of which have been launched commercially.

InnoGen underscores PLDT and Smart’s commitment to meaningful innovation, advancing the PLDT Group’s contribution to the country’s pursuit of UNSDG 10: Reduced Inequalities. By championing accessibility and opportunities for persons with disabilities, the program also supports the Philippines’ commitment to an inclusive and sustainable ASEAN future, as the regional organization marks its 58th founding anniversary.

Security Bank Provides MSMEs With Comprehensive, Customer-Centric Banking Solutions

Makati, Philippines— MSMEs make up 99.5% of all businesses in the Philippines and employ over 60% of the country’s workforce—yet they continue to face systemic barriers to growth, from limited access to credit to persistent cash flow issues and administrative hurdles. Recognizing their critical role in driving inclusive economic development, Security Bank is addressing these gaps with customer-centric solutions tailored to the day-to-day realities of Filipino entrepreneurs.

Through its Business Banking Segment (BBS), launched in 2022, Security Bank offers tailored financing, multi-channel access, and expert support for MSMEs nationwide. Backed by strong investments in platforms, partnerships, and talent, the Bank is making business banking more responsive and intuitive.

This focused approach is driving strong growth: as of March 2025, MSME loans under BBS reached PHP 21 billion, up 50% from PHP 14 billion the previous year.

“We’re committed to making banking simpler and more intuitive for entrepreneurs,” said John David Yap, EVP and Head of the Business Banking Segment. “By removing friction from everyday transactions and offering proactive guidance, we help MSMEs focus on what matters most: growing their business.”

Smart, convenient tools for modern businesses

Security Bank’s DigiBanker platform gives MSMEs a centralized system for payroll, tax remittances, supplier payments, and receivables management—cutting down manual tasks and improving operational visibility. For business owners, this means faster access to credit, fewer documentation hassles, and more time to run their operations.

“Security Bank has proven to be a reliable partner, offering competitive interest rates, accessible payment plans, and convenient digital banking services that allow us to monitor our transactions in real-time,” said Katherine Ann Karaca, President of Rider’s Pit Stop Philippines Incorporated, a wholesaler and retailer of motorcycle parts and accessories. “Location-wise, it’s excellent. Wherever we expand, there’s a Security Bank nearby, making it easy to deposit our daily sales. Thanks to Security Bank’s support, we closed the year with 27 Rider’s Pit Shop branches: 22 in Cebu, two in Tagbilaran, Bohol, and three in Dumaguete.”

As part of its commitment to continuously enhance its platforms and improve service for entrepreneurs, the Bank will soon launch a new MSME-dedicated app—building on the capabilities of DigiBanker to offer faster, more intuitive access to banking.

To address deeper operational challenges, Security Bank developed the Business Elite Program—offering preferential rates, waived fees, data-driven insights, and a dedicated Relationship Manager for qualified MSMEs. It goes beyond banking by combining financial tools with business support services.

“We developed the Business Elite Program with a clear focus on the needs of our high-value MSME clients to provide them with the right mix of financial and operational tools to support their growth,” Yap explained.

Through its Beyond Banking network, the Bank also connects MSMEs with expert partners like Empleyado (HR/payroll), FilePino (registration), SYCARDA (analytics), Taxumo and Juan Accounting (tax filing), Ninja Van (logistics), and MyLegalWhiz (legal support). MSMEs also benefit from non-life insurance coverage via PhilBritish Insurance, which includes property, liability, theft, fraud, and 24/7 telemedicine protection for businesses under the Business Elite program.

A long-term partner for business growth

“Ever since we started doing business with [Security Bank], they have continuously given us information that we need, and almost all the time, they are a call away from us,” said Martin Allen del Mundo, Acting OIC and current successor of Ared Enterprises, manufacturers of Porky Best Chicharon. They have been a Security Bank client since 2017. Del Mundo got a Business Mortgage Loan to expand their manufacturing center—allowing their products to be in more stores in Davao and Metro Manila.

“As business owners, we understand how important capital plays in the business. And because of Security Bank, we were able to get that capital and be able to have good interest rates and good payment terms that did not hinder us from continuing to grow the business,” he added.

Looking ahead, Security Bank is committed to expanding its ecosystem to meet the evolving needs of MSMEs. By creating a seamless, end-to-end experience that goes beyond traditional banking, the Bank aims to be the long-term growth partner for Filipino entrepreneurs at every stage of their business journey.

For more information on Security Bank’s MSME efforts, visit https://www.securitybank.com/business/.